1971 Fiat 125 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 125. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 125 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 125. (90 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 125. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 205 kg more than 1971 Fiat 125. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Fiat 125 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Fiat 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 125. (131 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 125.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Fiat 125 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 125 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 131 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |